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The seizures have led to 79 prosecutions - with jail sentences totally more than 14 years - 2,615 hours in community service orders and £7,990 in fines.

Chairman of the council’s communities and place committee Councillor Gordon Wheeler said: "The team has had great success in tackling the sale of illicit tobacco products in the county and the seizures are increasing year-on-year due to improving intelligence and widening our search to suppliers and online sellers as well as shops.

"Above all, the large number of prosecutions send a clear message to illicit tobacco traders and suppliers that they will be hunted out and brought to justice for their reckless actions."